Ban warns against further escalation of hostilities between Israel and Gaza

Further escalation of the hostilities between Israel and Gaza would be dangerous and tragic for Palestinians and Israelis, and would put the entire region at risk.

The warning comes from Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon during a press conference with Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem on Tuesday.

The Secretary-General said the world is really concerned at the rising loss of human lives. And he strongly condemned the rocket attacks by Palestinian militants targeting Israel, saying they must cease immediately.

“ I know how difficult the situation is here, but Israel must exercise maximum restraint. I strongly cautioned against a ground operation, which will only result in further tragedy. I have also stressed that while Israeli rockets may be aimed at military targets inside Gaza, they kill and injure civilians and damage civilian infrastructures.”

Secretary-General Ban stressed that the loss of civilian lives is unacceptable under any circumstances. And he noted that the excessive use of force is unlawful and must be rejected.

He concluded that his paramount immediate concern is for the safety and well-being of all civilians, in Israel and in Gaza.